• Champions League

Don't hate me because I am beautiful - Ronaldo

ESPN staff
September 16, 2011
Cristiano Ronaldo is not lacking in self-confidence © Getty Images
Enlarge

Cristiano Ronaldo believes the abuse he received from Dinamo Zagreb supporters in midweek is because they are jealous that he is "rich, handsome and a great player".

Notorious as much for his play-acting and arrogance as for his sublime skill, Ronaldo was booed and jeered by the fans at Real Madrid's Champions League opener in Croatia, after which Ronaldo criticised referee Sven Oddvar Moen for failing to crack down on Dinamo's challenges after he needed stitches on a gash on his ankle.

Ronaldo, who missed out on the best young player award at the 2006 World Cup for his part in Wayne Rooney's sending off in England's quarter-final defeat to Portugal, could offer no other explanation for why the home fans were chanting rival Lionel Messi's name.

"I think that because I am rich, handsome and a great player people are envious of me," Ronaldo said. "I don't have any other explanation. We are very happy with the three points we took, but I'm not so satisfied with the refereeing.

"I hope we never have this referee again. People talk of fair play, of protecting good players, but I never get any of that. I don't understand a thing. I'm sad because I hear referees saying they will protect skilful players, but while some are untouchable it seems I can be mauled."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices